Children typically get more than enough sugary treats from trick-or-treating. Some parents prefer that their child receive a non-candy offering. While those goodies may make parents happy, youngsters aren’t usually very exited about toothbrushes and similar items. Take heart, there are a number of alternatives to sugary sweets that can be given out at Halloween – and trick-or-treaters will like them. The following are some non-candy treats that can be purchased with a Halloween theme that youngsters will actually play with after the candy is gone. Be aware that some items are inappropriate for very small children. Use caution and common sense when choosing non-candy alternatives.
Halloween crayons
Mini puzzles
Squishy toys
Zipper pulls
Bead necklaces
Magic Fortune Telling Fish
Pokémon Halloween trading
card packs
Glowing fake bugs
Mini book of find the hidden objects
Bookmarks
Halloween scented pencils
Silly straws
Whoopee cushions
Light up rings
Glow sticks and jewelry
Slime
Magnets
Foam mask
Vampire teeth
Witch fingers
Stampers
Mini Slinky toys
Stickers
Novelty eyeglasses
Bubbles
Play-Doh
Mini stuffed toy
Temporary tattoos
Bouncy balls with Halloween themes
Slap bracelets, from the 80s and 90s
Rubber duck toy
Scary keychain lights
Prepackaged Options
Halloween can be a busy time for parents, taking their youngsters trick-or-treating and attending children’s parties. If you discover that you’ve run out of time or don’t have time to order non-candy treats, there are still options.
Consider prepackaged items such as individually packaged Goldfish crackers, popcorn, pretzels, granola bars, trail mix bars, sugar-free candy, fortune cookies, and similar goodies. Another good choice is hot chocolate or apple cider drink packets.
A number of companies offer goodies for Halloween trick-or-treaters in mini sizes or individual bags. Try giving out some mini boxes of raisins or fruit roll ups. Another good option that’s also healthy are mini oranges, apples or bananas.
Almost every child enjoys a bounce house experience, but there are some basic bounce house rules that everyone should follow to mitigate the potential for injuries and ensure safe operation.For Every Action…When a large child jumps on one side of the bounce house, it’s going to create a reaction of equal force on the other side of the amusement. That ripple effect can throw younger, lighter children off their feet and increases the potential for a bloody nose, sprain or fracture. A responsible adult should monitor the inflatable at all times to ensure youngsters in the entertainment are of the same age and size.A bounce house is for jumping and bouncing. Youngsters should not be performing somersaults or flips and roughhousing should be prevented. Children should never wear shoes in a bounce house – only socks. Where to Set it UpA bounce house should be set on open and level ground. A grassy location is best. Be sure the ground under the inflatable is free of sticks and stones. It should be established away from fences, outbuildings, sprinkler heads, and overhead tree branches. Be sure it’s properly anchored to the ground.What Doesn’t Belong in a Bounce HouseThere are some things that should absolutely not be allowed in a bounce house. That includes food, drinks and gum. An adult should check each child before they enter the amusement to ensure they remove jewelry, eyeglasses and other sharp objects. Hard toys should never enter the bounce house.Other ConsiderationsChoose a bounce house of the appropriate size for the youngsters that will be using it and limit the number of children using it to 4 or 5 at a time. Be aware of the weather – never use a bounce house in the rain. If the wind is strong enough to blow sand and small gravel around, it’s too strong for bounce house use.
You don’t have to have a reason to rent an inflatable bounce house and throw an impromptu children’s party. Few youngsters can resist the temptation to jump and bounce in a brightly colored inflatable. Bounce houses are available in dry and wet versions, along with those that incorporate an obstacle course, providing parents with options.Don’t forget to have snacks and beverages on hand. Children burn a lot of energy and calories playing in a bounce house. It’s essential that they remain hydrated, even when using a wet bounce house.Kid-Friendly FunIt’s not a true party unless you invite some friends over. Youngsters get to play with their friends and you have the peace of mind knowing they’re in a safe environment.Larger Than Life EntertainmentMost children are accustomed to seeing a bounce house in venues such as carnivals and fairs. The true size of a bounce house is revealed when set up in your back yard. Rental inflatables can accommodate multiple youngsters.Multiple ThemesInflatable bounce houses are available with multiple themes, allowing kids to pretend for hours. Bounce houses have themes appropriate for kids of all ages ranging from cartoon characters and fairy tales to superheroes and those with a holiday theme. They’re no longer simply square boxes. They can take the form of a snow globe, castle or gingerbread house.There’s More Than Just BouncingDepending on the inflatable, bounce houses enable children to play traditional games inside, such as tag. With wet bounce houses, children can also slide and splash.Healthy ExerciseInflatable bounce houses are an ideal way for children to burn off excess energy and it’s a healthy way to do so. Bounce houses aid children in developing balance, motor skills, strength and lung capacity, while providing a heart-healthy cardio workout. A bounce house party is also a great way to support socialization skills.
Celebrities are spending $200,000 for a child’s birthday party, while social media influencers are touting “bigger is better” ideas for gatherings. It tempts parents to spend more than they need to on their child’s party and focus on things rather than the child. The following tips can help you stop the madness, plan a stress-free party that will keep youngsters entertained, and won’t break your budget.Invest in an Experience Instead of a PartyThere are dozens of options for this, depending on the age of the attendees. Consider going bowling, taking everyone to that must-see movie, or going to an arcade. There’s almost no planning involved at all, other than creating a guest list and convincing a couple of other parents to help keep an eye on everyone. Parents simply drop their children off at the appointed location and pick them up at a pre-determined time.Keep Food and Beverages SimpleIf you’re planning a trip to the zoo or similar locale, seriously consider packing a picnic for everyone. Some locations have on-site grills if you want to cook hotdogs on the spot Consider ordering pizza or subs for a truly stress-free meal.Forget About a ThemeThemes can be fun, but you’ll spend far more time trying to obtain matching napkins, paper plates and cups, along with games, decorations and party favors, than the entire party will last.Focus on What’s ImportantKnow your budget and stay within it. Your child’s life isn’t going to be ruined if you can’t swing a traveling petting zoo or a local celebrity visit.Limit the guest list to the number of people you can comfortably accommodate, whether the event takes place at home or somewhere else. Just because your child wants to invited the entire class doesn’t mean you’re obligated to do so. It doesn’t affect the quality of the party.
There’s a lot of planning and work that goes into any party and that multiplies when organizing a neighborhood-based event. The following are some tips for ensuring party success.
Plan Early
There’s no guarantee that the weather will cooperate, but choose the day at least three months in advance. That gives you time to schedule your waterslide rental. Waterslides are often spoken for months in advance. It’s especially important if you have a specific theme in mind.
There will certainly be a permit required and an accompanying fee that must be paid. Be sure to check your homeowner’s insurance to see if any injuries or damages will be covered for the event.
Examine the Budget
The cost of a neighborhood pool party can quickly get out of hand. You’ll need to know if you’ll be paying for the entire cost yourself, if you’ll be asking for attendees to donate toward the cause, or if it will be a potluck style event.
Know Your Guests
Define the scope of the party. Decide if it will be certain families nearby, everyone on one side of the street, or the entire block. It’s essential that you know the ages of your guests. Waterslides are available in multiple heights. A 40-ft. waterslide is not appropriate for younger children. If a model is selected that deposits guests into an in-ground pool, it’s crucial to ascertain if everyone can swim or if a life vest will be needed for some guests.
Help is Essential
There are a lot of details to be considered, from food to flyers or if individual invitations will be issued. You’re going to need help to deal with invitations, RSVPs, how music will be provided and if someone will DJ, along with how food will be provided. Assign a person to handle each task and check back with them as needed to ensure success.
Even though South Florida is home to cooling Atlantic breezes, the state is subject to heat domes just as much as the rest of the nation. A heat dome occurs when a strong high-pressure system combines with an El Niño – particularly high Pacific water temperatures. A heat dome results, trapping the hot air inside and preventing it from dissipating. It creates extremely high temperatures that are dangerous for children and pets. There are some ways that can help keep kids and pets cool in a heat dome.Limit PlaytimeRestrict outdoor playtime for children and pets. Stay in the shade whenever possible. If youngsters or pets must go out, it’s better to do so in the early morning or later in the evening. It’s important to remember that concrete sidewalks can reach temperatures of 125° F., even without being under the influence of a heat dome. It burns paws and bare feet.Hydration and CoolingThe body sweats to cool off, which requires drinking more water in hot weather. It’s much more difficult for pets to reduce body temperature than people. Make plain, cool water available for kids and pets. Whether it’s a child or a pet, carry a bottle of water to keep them hydrated, even if the outing is only of short duration. Remain under air-conditioning if available and don’t be reticent about seeking a cooling center. Fans are ineffective for cooling in a heat dome – they simply blow around hot air.Stoves and WindowsBlocking windows to keep sunlight from entering will benefit children, pets and the entire household and aid in keeping it cooler. Avoid cooking on kitchen stoves whenever possible and don’t use the oven.WaterworksOne of the easiest ways to keep kids and pets cool is through water-based activities. Individuals can make use of a wading pool for youngsters or pets. A homemade slip and slide is another option. Misting hoses and sprinkler pads are equally effective for cooling kids and pets during a heat dome event.
South Florida is a hotspot for those seeking farm fresh foods and there are multiple locations from which to choose. What many don’t now is that farm markets provide far more than a place to purchase healthy and delicious fruits and veggies. Cash is always accepted and many farmers and vendors also accept credit and debit cards, along with SNAP benefits.Farm to TableFruits and vegetables don’t get any fresher than those at a farm market. The produce is grown locally and doesn’t spend days in transport to distant locations before its sold. That farm to table approach means shoppers enjoy more flavorful produce.Support Small Family FarmsMuch of the produce, herbs and spices found at farm markets is grown on small family farms. That often results in a greater diversity of products available. Supermarkets often order a specific amount of certain fruits or vegetables and when it sells out, shoppers are out of luck. Small family farms often have a greater supply for a longer period of time than supermarkets.Flowers to Dog TreatsIndividuals will find far more than fruits and vegetables at a farm market. The marketplaces are open to a wide variety of vendors and individuals seeking to share their hobby projects, launch a home business, or establish their brands. Depending on the location, shoppers will find jelly, jam, preserves and fresh honey. There’s home-baked breads, pies and desserts.An extensive number of independent creators of arts and crafts also sell at farm markets. Products range from hand-made jewelry, soap, cards and candles to wood crafts, pottery, baskets, and dog treats. Shoppers can find the perfect flower bouquet, garden and houseplants, salsa and items that are sewn, crocheted and knitted.Empowering KnowledgeFarmers are always willing to talk about their produce. Shoppers can learn a great deal about how their fruits and vegetables are grown, harvested and packaged.
Like the U.S., South Florida is a melting pot of people, culture and customs. From catered events to backyard BBQs, food plays a central role in the festivities. There are a number of must-have dishes served, but cultural and regional influences from the diverse Florida population have added new nuances to traditional favorites.
Main Event
Meat takes center stage at a BBQ and each griller typically has their own BBQ sauce recipe. Favorite meats for the grill are ribs, pulled pork and chicken.
Vegetables
Try some corn on the cob, wrapped in aluminum foil with a generous helping of butter and left to cook on the grill. Another favorite is bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of cream cheese, cheese and bacon. Rice can be added if desired. No southern BBQ would be complete without fried okra, fried green tomatoes and collard greens. Potatoes are typically cut into chunks and grilled with any combination of spices.
Select Sides
Mac & cheese is a well-known comfort food. The southern version is marked by cheese – and plenty of it. Each cook has a preferred blend of cheeses for a delicious and filling side dish. Baked beans are a staple at southern BBQs. Onions, bacon, and rum or whisky may be combined for a unique taste treat. Individuals will also find deviled eggs that includes paprika to bacon bits.
Salads
Coleslaw, potato salad, and macaroni salad are essential. Coleslaw can be made with green or red cabbage. Potato salad encompasses potatoes, boiled eggs, onion, and mayo. It may contain a pinch of sugar, green peppers, pickles, celery, and mustard, depending on the cook’s individual recipe. Substitute macaroni for potatoes and the rest of the ingredients are similar for macaroni salad.
Bread
Cornbread, biscuits or both may be offered for eating as-is or making pulled pork sandwiches.
Desserts
From key lime pie, lemon meringue and pecan pie, the pastries play an integral role. Ambrosia is often called a salad, but typically served as a dessert. It combines whipped cream, oranges, cherries and pineapple for a delicious treat. Coconut is often included.
Beverages
Guests will be able to wash all that delicious food down with a tall glass of lemonade, sweet tea or a soft drink.
For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/
The well-known audience participation entertainment known as karaoke began in Kobe, Japan. It’s now a favorite at home parties to bars around the globe. Some songs lend themselves to karaoke better than others and entire albums have been dedicated to the most frequently selected tracks. The song selection runs the gamut and some have universal appeal.
Bad Romance by Lady Gaga
Before He Cheats by Carri Underwood
Bye Bye Bye by Nsync
Build Me Up Buttercup by The Foundations
Can’t Help Falling in Love With You by Elvis Presley
Dancing Queen by Abba
Don’t Go Breaking My Heart by Elton John
Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey
Don’t Worry, Be Happy by Bobby Mcferrin
Ex’s & Oh’s by Elle King
Girls Just Want to Have Fun by Cindi Lauper
Goodbye Earl by The Chicks
Hallelujah by Alexandra Burke
Hakuna Matata from The Lion King
Hit Me Baby One More Time by Britney Spears
Hollaback Girl by Gwen Stefani
I Heard it Through the Grapevine by Marvin Gaye
I Love Rock ‘n Roll by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts
It’s Raining Men by The Weather Girls
(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes
I Wanna Dance With Somebody by Whitney Houston
I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor
Jolene by Dolly Parton
Larger Than Life by Backstreet Boys
Livin’ On A Prayer by Bon Jovi
Love Shack by The B-52’s
Never Gonna Give You Up by Rick Astley
Nothin’ Better To Do by LeAnn Rimes
Rolling In The Deep by Adele
Should I Stay Or Should I Go by The Clash
(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding
Stronger by Kelly Clarkson
Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond
Sweet Child O’ Mine by Guns ‘n Roses
Thank You For Being a Friend by Andrew Gold
Uptown Girl by Billy Joel
Walking On Sunshine by Katrina And The Waves
Wannabe by Spice Girls
For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/
When Mother Nature changes her colors to autumn splendor, people race to experience the reds, yellows, and oranges of fall. Many people don’t think of Florida as a hotspot of autumn color, but there are definitely locations where individuals can go to view fall foliage.
Florida’s changing colors can arrive as late as November due to the warmer climate. The Sunshine State displays her colors when other states are past their peak. It’s possible to discover pockets of spectacular fall foliage by taking a drive along rural roads.
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
Revel in the fall foliage that surrounds the sapphire waters of one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. The lake is home to alligators, manatees, and a diverse abundance of wildlife. Colors can be viewed from a diving platform or by riverboat.
Falling Waters State Park
Visitors can view the highest waterfall in Florida – that’s actually a sinkhole – framed by the vivid colors of autumn. There’s an access path and viewing platform.
Morningside Nature Center
In addition to autumn colors, there’s a multitude of fall-blooming wildflowers to view.
Three Rivers State Park
Maples are well known for their intense fall colors. Pockets of brilliantly colored maples and oaks clothed in red, yellow and orange are a stunning contrast to the pines that grow among them. Viewing can be done by hiking trail or by cruising the lake.
Torreya State Park
The park is a favorite for fall colors and features maples, sourwood, and sweetgum. Taking the Weeping Ridge Trail, visitors can view the foliage and the park’s waterfall. The park is also home to rare trees.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Visitors will be treated to the brilliant oranges and yellows of the cypress, maple, sweetgum, sugarberry, and persimmon trees. They grow amongst palm trees for an interesting contrast.
For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/